Jacob......

The Supplanter, Transformed into Israel, the Prince of God.
No other Bible character represents more fully the conflict between the lower and the higher nature, than does that of Jacob.
Beginning on the down grade, at times it reaches glorious heights, only to sink again into the sordid struggle for gain. But it emerges at the very last upon the plane of triumphant faith.
No, devout reader who studies the history of this man's career can doubt that he was a chosen instrument of God in spite of all his weaknesses.
Key thoughts: There are two key thoughts which open up his life and throw light upon his history.
1- The unhappiness produced by family trouble and polygamy. "This fact is illustrated throughout his entire career.
2- The transforming power of fellowship with God.
This truth shines clearly through all the loftier experiences of this chosen man.
I. Early life: Down grade, domestic trouble.
A. He cheats his brother, Esau, out of his birthright. Gen 25:29-34
B. He deceives his aged father. Gen. 27- 1-29
C. Compelled to flee for his life, it is arranged that he shall go to Haran to choose a wife. Gen. 27:41 & Chap. 28:1-5
D. A night experience on a higher level..... The spiritual vision and a vow at Bethal. Gen. 28:10-22
II. In Haran... family trouble continues.
E. THe romance of love spoiled by deception concerning his marriage. Chap.29: 15-30
F. The long and sordid struggle with his father-in-law, and the jealously between his wives. Gen 30:1-43
G. An upward movement, the divine call to return to the promised land, Chap 31:3
Departing secertly he is pursued by his father-in-law. Chap 31
H. on his pathway of obedience he is met by angelic messengers. chap. 32:1,2
ANOTHER GREAT SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE.
I.The alarm at his brother's approach with four hundred men causes him to resort to prayer. Gen 32: 3-12
J.He spends the night wrestling with an angel in desperate entreaty He gains the 'victory' and his named is changed to "Israel". Gen. 32: 24-32 He has an affectionate meeting with his brother, Esau. Gen 33:1-16
K. His daughter Dinah is defiled. Gen 34: 1-5
L. In a spirit of revenge his sons bring trouble upon him. Gen 34: 7- 31
M. Arriving at Bethel, he remembers his former vision there and builds an altar. Gen 35: 1-15
III. His Later Years: Domestic trouble still continues.
N. Parental partiality and family jealousy leads to Joseph being sold to Egypt. Gen 37: 1- 36
O. Other family troubles. Gen. 38: 1-30
P. Joseph's exaltation and divine call to Egypt. Gen 39 - 45 & 46: 1-4
His Last Days:
Q. Dying he blesses his grandsons and sons. Gen. 48-49
R. By many it is thought he prophesied the coming of the Messiah. Gen 49:10